08/28/2026
⚠️ ATM SCAM ALERT ⚠️
The Foster City Police Department wants to warn residents about a “cash trapping” scam currently affecting ATMs in our area.
How it works:
🔹 Suspects place a fake “No Cash Deposit” or “Out of Order” sticker on the ATM
🔹 A hidden metal device is installed inside the cash dispenser to physically trap bills as they’re withdrawn
🔹 The machine appears to malfunction — no cash comes out, and the transaction may show as failed
🔹 Victims walk away thinking there was an error, not realizing their money was actually dispensed and captured by the device
🔹 Suspects return later to retrieve the trapped cash
Protect yourself:
✅ Inspect the ATM before use — look for anything taped, glued, or attached near the cash dispenser slot
✅ Be suspicious of handwritten signs about “no cash” or “deposit only” — legitimate signage is professionally printed
✅ If a withdrawal fails or cash doesn’t dispense, do NOT walk away — check your bank statement/app immediately and report it
✅ If something looks tampered with, don’t use the machine — report it to the bank and to us
✅ Use ATMs at your bank branch when possible, and during daylight hours
If you believe you’re a victim:
📞 Contact your bank immediately to dispute the transaction
📞 Report it to the Foster City Police Department at 650-286-3300
When in doubt, don’t use it — and let us know. See something suspicious on an ATM? Call us.
